Playgrounds can be the scene of serious injuries if they’re not properly built and maintained. Although you can’t prevent every accident that occurs, you can help reduce the risk through proper design, maintenance, and supervision. This checklist covers the following questions:
Was your playground equipment designed and installed by professionals?
Does your playground equipment sit on at least 9 to 12 inches of shock-absorbing surface material, and is it firmly anchored to the ground?
Are elevated play areas on your playground protected with continuous guardrails. (20 inches above the ground for preschoolers, 30 inches above the ground for schoolaged children)?
Is the space between handrails and ladder rungs no larger than 3.5 x 9 inches to prevent head entrapment?
Are your playground swings spaced at least two feet apart and 30 inches from the side poles to help prevent crashes?
Is your playground separated from roadways with a fence, wall, or other secure barrier?
Is your playground cleaned regularly and inspected for broken glass or sharp, metal objects?
Is your playground equipment regularly inspected for worn or missing parts, loose bolts, sharp edges or points, damaged “S” hooks, and exposed components that could trip, pinch, or crush someone?
Are moving parts on your playground equipment properly lubricated?
Is splintered or cracked wood repaired as soon as possible?
Are children under the age of 5 accompanied by at least two adults at all times when using your playground? Are proper adult-to-child ratios for supervision followed?
Do children know how to use the equipment correctly and understand the rules and expectations for playground safety?
